Hill McGylnn Recruitment is proud to be working on behalf of a well-established, multi-disciplinary organisation to recruit an experienced Head of SHEQ.
This is a senior leadership position responsible for setting the strategic direction and overseeing the operational delivery of Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality across multiple business divisions. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in driving compliance, continuous improvement, and a strong, proactive SHEQ culture throughout the organisation.
Reporting directly to the Managing Directors and managing a small team of SHEQ Advisors, this role offers the opportunity to influence at a board level while remaining closely connected to operational teams.
Role Purpose
The Head of SHEQ will lead and develop the company-wide SHEQ framework, ensuring the business operates to the highest standards. You will provide expert guidance to senior leaders and site teams alike, embedding SHEQ into everyday decision-making and supporting the organisation's continued growth and performance.
Key Responsibilities: Strategic Leadership
Develop and deliver the SHEQ strategy in line with wider business objectives.
Drive continuous improvement of systems, processes, and culture.
Anticipate future risks, regulatory changes, and industry trends.
Partner with senior leadership to integrate SHEQ into business planning.
Operational Management
Oversee day-to-day SHEQ activity across all divisions, ensuring consistency of approach.
Provide competent SHEQ advice to managers, site teams, and project leads.
Carry out site inspections, audits, and reviews.
Ensure incidents and near misses are reported, investigated, and lessons learned are shared.
Leadership of the SHEQ Team
Line manage and develop SHEQ Advisors.
Set objectives, monitor performance, and support professional development.
Promote collaboration and best practices across the group.
Compliance & Governance
Maintain and enhance the Integrated Management System (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO
Ensure compliance with all relevant SHEQ legislation and requirements, including CDM and environmental standards.
Lead external audits and certification processes.
Produce clear SHEQ performance reports for senior leadership.
Cultural Development
Champion a positive safety culture at every level of the business.
Deliver engagement initiatives, toolbox talks, workshops, and awareness campaigns.
Encourage ownership and accountability for SHEQ responsibilities.
Risk Management
Lead risk assessments and ensure appropriate controls are in place.
Support the development of safe systems of work, method statements, and environmental plans.
Challenge unsafe behaviours and practices constructively.
Emergency Preparedness
Oversee emergency response planning, fire safety, and business continuity arrangements.
Ensure training and drills are completed as required.
Key Skills & Competencies
Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
In-depth knowledge of health & safety legislation, environmental law, and quality management.
Comfortable balancing strategic oversight with hands-on operational support.
Excellent communication, coaching, and relationship-building skills.
Data-driven approach with strong analytical and reporting capability.
Able to manage competing priorities across multiple business areas.
Qualifications & Experience
NEBOSH Diploma (or equivalent) - essential.
Chartered (CMIOSH) or working towards chartership - desirable.
Background in construction, utilities, property services, or a similar multi-disciplinary environment.
Proven experience managing a SHEQ team.
Demonstrated experience implementing and maintaining ISO management systems.
Strong track record of improving SHEQ performance within a growing organisation.
What Success Looks Like
Reduced incident rates and stronger leading indicators.
High levels of compliance across all business areas.
An engaged workforce with clear improvements in safety culture.
Robust SHEQ systems are embedded and consistently applied.
Clear, reliable reporting that supports informed business decisions.
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